CRADLEY suffered last gasp heartache as they slipped to a 46-43 defeat against Coventry in a tense National League encounter at Brandon.
Despite a determined effort, the Heathens were condemned to their first defeat of the season against a strong Storm side - although they did leave with a well-deserved point.
Having romped to three consecutive victories in their opening three meetings of 2014, Cradley looked set to extend their winning run as they raced into an eight point lead early on.
Yet a late surge from the home side saw them slip to a disappointing defeat as they came out second best in a nervy last heat decider - and a frustrated Will Pottinger admitted it was just "one of those nights".
He said: "Of course it's extremely disappointing to lose after being eight points up at one stage. A few things went against us machinery wise and with decisions; it was just one of those nights really.
"At least we came away with a point which is better than nothing and the minimum requirement from away meetings.
"We can't get too disappointed with one loss - we've just got to regroup now, put it behind us and make sure we are back on top form next Tuesday.'
Skipper Paul Starke led from the front with a classy display, whilst Steve Worrall also put in a solid display despite fading as the meeting wore on.
Reserve Matt Williamson and Danny Phillips also put in strong showings to bolster the lower order - yet Max Clegg, Tom Perry and Nathan Greaves all endured tough meetings as the Heathens saw a number of falls and bike problems blight their evening.
The side will return to the track next Tuesday aiming to get back to winning ways as they welcome Buxton to Monmore Green.
COVENTRY 46: Oliver Greenwood 14, Stefan Nielsen 8+1, Ryan Terry-Daley 8, Dan Greenwood 6+3, James Sarjeant 6,Luke Crang 4+1, Martin Knuckey 0.
CRADLEY 43: Paul Starke 14, Steve Worrall 8+1, Danny Phillips 7, Matt Williamson 5+1, Tom Perry 5, Nathan Greaves 3+1, Max Clegg 1.
